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Here's a look at everything you should know about tornadoes and tornado safety.

When is tornado season

Tornado season for West Texas begins around the end of March, and peaks in May before tapering off through June, according to NWS.

March happens to be the deadliest month for Texas due to flash flooding and tornadoes, according to a study at University of Texas at San Antonio. Spring and summer are the deadliest times due to flash floods, heat and tornadoes, said Hector Guerrero, National Weather Service warning and coordination meteorologist.

How are tornadoes rated

Tornadoes are rated on the Enhanced Fujita Scale, which factors wind speed and damage, according to the Weather Channel. The original Fujita scale is named after its founder Ted Fujita, severe storms research scientist at the University of Chicago in 1971. The enhanced scale goes from EF-0 to EF-5.

EF-0 has estimated wind speeds at 65-85 mph with light damage. This could include peeling off roof surfaces, some damage to gutters or siding, broken tree branches and shallow-rooted trees falling over.

EF-1 tornado winds clock at 86-110 mph and moderate damage, which can include roofs being stripped, mobile homes being overturned, loss of exterior doors, and broken glass.

EF-2 tornado winds are 111-135 mph with considerable damage. Roofs can be completely torn off, house foundations could shift, mobile homes destroyed, large trees snapped or uprooted, light-object missiles can occur and cars can be lifted off the ground.

EF-3 tornado winds are 136-165 with severe damage. Entire stories of buildings can be destroyed, trains overturned, heavy cars lifted off the ground and thrown, and structures with "weak" foundations can be blown away.

EF-4 tornado winds are 166-200 mph with devastating damage. Houses can be leveled, cars thrown and small missiles can be made. The Lake View tornado in 1953 was an EF-4.

EF-5 are the most devastating on the scale is with winds over 200 mph and "incredible" damage. Houses can be leveled and blown away, automobile-sized missiles can fly ocer 100 meters and high rise buildings can have structural deformation.

Preparing for a tornado:

Regularly check the forecast, local news or a NOAA Weather Radio to stay informed about area watches and warnings.

What should you do during a tornado:

If you are at home, go to your basement, safe room, or an interior room away from windows.

At work or school, follow the tornado drill. Stay away from windows and do no go to large, open rooms such as gyms or auditoriums.

When outside, find a sturdy building. Sheds and storage facilities do not qualify.

If you are caught in your vehicle, drive to the closest shelter. If you can't get to a shelter in time, get down in the car and cover your head, or abandon the car and get in a low-lying area such as a ditch.

Use extra materials, such as furniture and blankets, as additional cover.